Over 15,000 packages of Neutrogena’s widely used makeup wipes were pulled from shelves last month after federal regulators raised serious alarms about bacterial contamination.
Kenvue, the company behind Neutrogena, initiated this voluntary recall when tests revealed that certain batches of their popular makeup remover towelettes contained Pluralibacter gergoviae. This bacterium is known to cause infections, prompting an urgent report from the Food and Drug Administration.
Authorities are still investigating the precise origin of this contamination, and it remains unclear whether any individuals have reported illnesses linked to the affected products.
Specifically, the recall targets 1,312 cases of Neutrogena’s 50-count, 25-pack ‘ultrasoft cleansing towelettes.’ Each case contains 12 individual packages, as detailed in the official recall statement.
These potentially contaminated wipes were primarily distributed across Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas, the F.D.A. confirmed.
In an official email statement, Kenvue emphasized that the recall was initiated ‘out of an abundance of caution,’ assuring consumers that no other Neutrogena products have been found to be affected by this specific bacterial contamination.
Initially enacted on September 19th, the recall was elevated to a Class II status on October 3rd. The F.D.A. classifies a Class II recall as a situation where product use or exposure could lead to ‘temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences, or where the likelihood of serious adverse health consequences is low.’
Pluralibacter gergoviae, often referred to as P. gergoviae, generally poses minimal health threats to healthy individuals. However, the F.D.A. warns that it can trigger severe infections in people with compromised immune systems or pre-existing chronic conditions.
For those with weakened immunity, this bacterium has been linked to concerning health issues including eye infections, urinary tract infections, sepsis, and various respiratory illnesses.
Interestingly, common preservatives used in many cosmetic and personal care items are often ineffective against this particular bacterium, as noted by Melbec Microbiology, a reputable cosmetic testing laboratory.
This isn’t an isolated incident; other personal care brands have also faced recalls due to potential P. gergoviae contamination.
For instance, earlier this year, hair care company Amika recalled its ‘mirrorball high shine and protect antioxidant shampoo’ sold in 2023 and 2024, citing similar bacterial contamination concerns.
Similarly, in 2022, Kao USA, the parent company of Jergens, recalled specific batches of its ‘ultrhealing moisturizer’ due to the presence of Pluralibacter gergoviae.